CHICOPEE, Mass. - In Chicopee, Joel McAuliffe and Shirley Arriaga will face off for the state's 8th Hampden District House seat. They're vying for the seat previously held by long time state Rep. Joseph Wagner

Wagner announced his plans to retired back in February. Spectrum News 1 caught up with him at the polls Tuesday as he reflected back on his 31 years in office, saying it's gone by quickly.

He said his commitment to the community has been hallmark of his public service, working with local and state government to help accomplish many things for Chicopee including funding education, reconstructing every major bridge in the city and the construction of two new high schools.

"The politics of government is trying to bring back resources for the people you represent and trying to work with your colleagues to shape policy that benefits the people you represent," Wagner said. "It's been a whirlwind over 31 years, it's been an honor. Public services has been a highlight of my life and outside of family it's been the second best thing in my life."

Wagner said his support is behind Arriaga because she is the best candidate for the city going forward. Mcauliffe is being backed by the Mass Teachers Association and a majority of the Chicopee City Council.